NEW!
Enter a word or phrase
below to search Artesia360
Enter a word or phrase
below to search Artesia360
NEWS:
Volume 3, Number 34
March 20, 2008
March 20, 2008
Your contributions, comments
& suggestions are welcome.
Please click News to email us.
& suggestions are welcome.
Please click News to email us.
Artesia360.com
 | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  |
Special weather information
provided by:
Wendell L. Malone,
Area Skywarn Coordinator
Eddy & Culberson counties
provided by:
Wendell L. Malone,
Area Skywarn Coordinator
Eddy & Culberson counties
| THE WEATHER BOX www.eddycountyskywarn.blogspot.com CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS will return today to the Upper Trans Pecos, northwestern Permian Basin, Guadalupe Mountains and Van Horn areas and southeast New Mexico. A RED FLAG WARNING is in effect for these areas as dry and windy conditions are expected. Showers and thunderstorms will be possible across locations north and east of the Pecos River Saturday night into Sunday morning. Some storms could become strong to severe with the primary threats being large hail and damaging winds. Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 82. South wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to between 20 and 25 mph. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph. Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. West wind 20 to 25 mph decreasing to between 10 and 15 mph. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph. Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 78. North wind between 5 and 15 mph. Friday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 43. Calm wind. Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 74. Calm wind becoming east between 5 and 10 mph. Saturday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. Sunday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55. Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 33. Monday: Sunny, with a high near 73. Monday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 42. Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 76. Tuesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 48. Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 80. |
| The United States government's national threat level is Elevated, or Yellow. The U.S. threat level is High, or Orange, for all domestic and international flights. Only small amounts of liquids, aerosols and gels are allowed in carry-on baggage. See the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for up-to-date information on items permitted and prohibited on airlines. |
Crystal Darkness to air in New Mexico
On April 10th, 2008, at 6:30pm, the communities of New Mexico will fight
back against Meth. In a historic and unprecedented event, a 30-minute
documentary titled 'Crystal Darkness' will air in a roadblock, which means it
will be broadcast simultaneously on all stations in the area, among them
KOB TV, KRQE TV, WB19, KASA Fox TV, and Telemundo. A simultaneous
training program will be introduced into all the schools in New Mexico to
educate our children. Follow up recovery efforts, fundraising, and
awareness raising could make this the most important community campaign
to hit our state in decades.
For more information about the documentary or about meth, visit Crystal
Darkness on the web at http://www.crystaldarkness.com/default.asp.
Domenici & Pearce comment on 5th anniversary
LOS ALAMOS – Marking the fifth anniversary of Operation Iraqi Freedom
Tuesday, U.S. Senator Pete Domenici reiterated his support for U.S. troops
in their ongoing efforts to improve Iraq’s safety and security.
Domenici recalled the New Mexico-related casualties in the War on Terror
and offered the following remarks:
“The Iraqi government has recently made progress in achieving the
benchmarks laid out by the President and Congress last year, and I am
encouraged by their growth in cultivating a peaceful and safe Iraq. I expect
further progress as the Iraqi government works together in the best interest
of its people.
“These advances would have been impossible without the help of American
troops. Over the past several years they and their families, many from New
Mexico, have made great sacrifices. They deserve our profound thanks
and support for their efforts in Iraq and the overall War on Terror.
“The costs associated with the war are large, yet I believe circumstances
dictate that we support funding and a congressional role to allow our troops
to defend the United States to the fullest extent. To do otherwise will
strengthen our enemies and undermine our national security.”
Congressman Steve Pearce made the following remarks on the 5-year
Anniversary of the Iraq War Commencement:
“We have seen tremendous progress by the Iraqi people to form a secure
and democratic country. I continue to view Iraq with cautious optimism, but
it is undeniable that the violence has dropped dramatically due in large part
to the skill and courage of our armed forces along with the
counterinsurgency strategy known as the Surge. The United States has a
vital national security interest in ensuring Iraq is a stable and valuable
partner in the War on Terror. There has been significant progress toward
that goal. As long as our military leaders believe we have role to play in
that objective and it is achievable, we should continue to offer our support
to the Iraqi people.”
Judy Stewart honored at city hall reception
Photo by Jan Briggs
Judy Stewart accepts a plaque of appreciation from Mayor Phil Burch at a reception
Tuesday afternoon. Stewart served as City Councilor in District 1 for eight years.
Brain-Teasers at the museum
ARTESIA - The Artesia Historical Museum & Art Center is currently
featuring “Brain Teasers”, an interactive exhibit on loan from the ¡Explora!
Museum in Albuquerque. The exhibit is on display in our Art Annex gallery
now through June 14th during regular Museum hours: Tuesdays-Fridays 9-
noon & 1-5; Saturdays 1-5 (please give us a call if you’d like to set up a
time to visit outside of these hours).
The exhibit features 20 different puzzles and mind-challenging games for
visitors to experiment with, grouped around 5 tables. In other words, this is
an exhibit that you CAN touch! The activities include knot-tying, number
games, tangram puzzles, balancing games, and lots more.
Families are encouraged to visit and test their team working skills, and
school classes and other groups are also welcome. We still have some
funding to sponsor school bus expenses, on a first-come first-served basis,
thanks to The Chase Foundation—just give Nancy a call at the Museum at
(575) 748-2390.
Wild Horse and Burro Program coming to Artesia
The public lands of the Western United States are diverse, ruggedly
beautiful and majestic - as are the horses and burros that live there. These
animals are born with the colors of the land upon them. The browns, blacks,
reds, blues, dapple grays, and snowy whites all reflect nature's paint-brush.
As early as the 1600's, horses and burros were released by or escaped
from Spanish explorers. As America's west was settled, additional horses
and burros from American Indians, settlers, miners, ranchers and soldiers
established the foundations of today's wild horse and burro herds. Wild
herds like these symbolize our western heritage and pioneer spirit.
Today, America's wild horses and burros are found in 10 western states. It
is the BLM's responsibility to preserve and protect healthy herds of wild,
free-roaming horses and burros as components of the public lands. The
Wild Horse Annie Act of 1959 and the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and
Burros Act of 1971 gave wild horses and burros a legal right to live on
public lands without harassment. The Adopt-A-Horse or Burro Program was
initiated in 1973 to meet the challenges of balancing the health of public
lands with the health of the wild horses and burros.
BLM invites you to adopt a living legend!
In Artesia, adoptions will be April 17 - 19, 2008 at the Eddy County
Fairgrounds.
*Thursday Preview: 4 - 6pm
*Friday Adoption: 8am - 6pm
*Saturday Adoption: 8am - Noon
Oral Bid Adoption starts at 10am on Friday. First-come-first-served
afterward for remainder of weekend.
Click here for PDF informational flyer.
Adoption Requirements
Applicant must be 18 years of age or older.
Applicant must have access to a stall/corral that meets the following criteria:
* Stall, corral, etc. must contain a minimum of 400 square feet per animal
* Stall, corral, etc. that is 6' tall on all sides with access to feed, water and
adequate shelter for anything 2 years or older. The stall/corral height is 5'
for a yearling and 4.5' for a burro. (This area is only required until animal is
gentled, not for the life of the animal.)
* Stall, corral, etc. must be made of protrusion-free materials, (EX) Wood,
Pipe, Cattle Panels. Barbed wire is not allowed in the area that is being
used for gentling the animal.
* Covered stock trailer. Covered stock trailer refers to: solid top, pipe rails,
tarp, etc. BLM will not load into two-horse or drop-ramp trailers.
Applicant must describe their stall/corral, etc. in the application packet and
submit to BLM for approval.
* Application - Describe the area where you will keep the animal(s) during
the gentling phase. (Application is located in back of brochure.)
Once you have completed the application packet, you may:
* Mail your packet to BLM at 221 N Service Rd, Moore, OK 73160
* or FAX your packet to BLM at (405) 790-1050
* or Hand deliver your packet to BLM at an upcoming adoption site
Upon receipt of your application packet, BLM will notify you by mail of your
approval. Approval can take place in a day’s time.
Method of payment: Cash, Money Order, VISA, MasterCard, American
Express, Discover, or Personal Check. Make all checks or money orders
out to USDI-BLM. Sorry, no debit cards are accepted. An adoption fee is
only required when adopting an animal!
Domenici asks for first responder training dollars
ALBUQUERQUE – U.S. Senator Pete Domenici Ttuesday indicated that he
has made a formal request to increase federal funding for the National
Infrastructure and Simulation Analysis Center (NISAC) in Albuquerque, as
well as additional funding to continue first responder training for local police
and firefighters.
Domenici serves on the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations
Subcommittee that will soon begin crafting the FY2009 funding bill for the
Department of Homeland Security, which includes the various agencies that
oversee border security and trade. Domenici made his request in a letter
to the leadership of the subcommittee.
Domenici has requested a $19 million increase over the President’s budget
request for NISAC in FY2009. If approved, NISAC would receive $35 million
to continue its work on simulating and evaluating potential homeland
security threats whether caused by national disasters or terrorists. NISAC,
a joint DHS and Energy Department initiative, is led by Sandia and Los
Alamos national laboratories. (http://www.sandia.
gov/mission/homeland/programs/critical/nisac.html)
“Our national laboratories in New Mexico have provided valuable assistance
to the Homeland Security Department over the past several years. NISAC
continues to come up with vital information on critical infrastructure
protection and continuity,” Domenici said. “The additional funding would
allow NISAC to continue to show us how to protect services like
transportation or electricity systems, which if disrupted would pose grave
security and economic threats to the country.”
Domenici is also requesting a total of $120 million for the National Domestic
Preparedness Consortium (NDPC), which includes New Mexico Tech. The
Domenici plan would allow each member of the consortium—New Mexico
Tech, Louisiana State University, Texas A&M University and the Nevada
Test Site—to be allotted $30 million to carry out first responder training for
emergency responders. This year each member is receiving $22 million in
FY2008 funding. The President requested $32.0 million for NDPC
FY2009. (http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/odp/)
“I don’t know that we are at a point in this nation where we should be
drawing back on first responder training,” Domenici said. “The courses
offered by New Mexico Tech and its partners have trained thousands of first
responders to better prepare them for disasters and potential terrorist
attacks.”
Domenici cautioned that the FY2009 budget and appropriations process
will be difficult, but that he will work to secure resources for New Mexico
from within available funding for FY2009.
FEMA flood information & preparedness advice
Throughout the nation, residents are at risk for flooding during spring, the
time of year when the warming sun and increased rainfall begin melting the
winter snow pack, releasing its often high water content. The Department of
Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency urges
residents to be prepared.
Before the threat of flooding becomes imminent, flood mitigation experts
advise individuals to:
* Purchase a flood insurance policy now. Homeowner insurance policies
do not include flood loss and there is a 30 day wait period for flood
coverage to become effective. Call your homeowner insurance agent to find
out about flood insurance.
* Make sure downspouts carry water several feet from your house to a
well-drained area. About 2,500 gallons of water will come from a 1,000
square foot roof with one foot of snow depth across the roof. This much
water may cause problems if allowed to drain next to the house.
* Move snow on the ground away from the house. Water from the snow
may cause a wet basement if allowed to run down along the basement wall.
If the ground is sloped 1 inch per foot near the house, moving the snow just
3-5 feet from the house will reduce problems.
* Examine and clean your sump pump, if you have one. Test your sump
pump by pouring water into the pit. Make sure the discharge hose carries
the water several feet away from the house to a well-drained area. Also
make sure that the pipe is on sloped ground so it drains to prevent it from
freezing.
* Remove snow from around rural yards to minimize soft, wet soil
conditions. Remember that a 20-foot diameter 10-foot high pile of snow
contains about 2,600 gallons of water. Move the snow to well drained areas.
* Be aware of local evacuation routes.
Consumers may call 1-888-379-9531 (TTY: 800-427-5593) or visit www.
FloodSmart.gov to learn about their potential flood risks, flood insurance
and how to prepare for floods.
IRS economic stimulus payments could hit your bank in May
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced Monday that it
will begin sending more than 130 million economic stimulus payments
starting May 2. The initial round of weekly payments will be completed by
early July.
Stimulus payments will be made by direct deposit to people who choose to
receive their 2007 income tax refunds through direct deposit. All others will
receive their economic stimulus payments in the form of a paper check.
“To receive an economic stimulus payment, people just need to file their tax
returns as they usually do,” said IRS Acting Commissioner Linda E. Stiff.
“The payments will be automatic for the vast majority of taxpayers. Some
lower-income workers and recipients of certain Social Security and veterans
benefits who don’t normally need to file a tax return will need to do so in
order to receive a stimulus payment. IRS.gov has all the information people
need to help them obtain a stimulus payment.”
Stimulus payments will be sent out in the order of the last two digits of the
Social Security number used on the tax return.
Because the IRS will use the Social Security number to determine when
checks are mailed, taxpayers may receive their checks at different times
than their neighbors or other family members. On a jointly filed return, the
first Social Security number listed will determine the mail-out time.
The IRS expects to make about 34 million payments within the first three
weeks after the payment schedule begins May 2. With more than 130
million households expected to receive stimulus payments, more than 25
percent of the payments will be made in the first three weeks.
Taxpayers who choose direct deposit on their federal income tax returns
can expect to receive their economic stimulus payments between May 2
and May 16 provided their returns were received and processed by April
15, 2008. For taxpayers who did not choose direct deposit on their tax
return but whose returns were processed by April 15, the paper checks will
be in the mail starting May 16, with the initial mailings completed by around
July 11.
The IRS is also announcing Monday the availability of an on-line calculator
on IRS.gov to help taxpayers determine if they are eligible to receive an
economic stimulus payment and if they are, how much they can expect.
Anyone who has prepared a 2007 income tax return can use the calculator.
It will ask taxpayers a series of questions, so they should have their 2007
tax returns handy. After answering the questions, the calculator will provide
the projected dollar value of the payment.
A small percentage of tax returns will require additional time to process and
to compute a stimulus payment amount. For these returns, stimulus
payments may not be issued in accordance with the schedule at IRS.gov,
even if the tax return was processed by April 15.
All or part of an economic stimulus payment may be applied to back taxes
or certain other debts of the taxpayer, such as delinquent child support and
student loans. In such cases, the IRS will send a letter to the taxpayer
explaining the offset.
To accommodate people whose tax returns are processed after April 15,
the IRS will continue sending weekly payments. People who file tax returns
after April 15 and receive a refund can expect to receive their economic
stimulus payments in about two weeks after receiving their tax refunds, but
not before the date they would have received their payment if the return
had been processed by April 15. To ensure taxpayers receive their stimulus
payment this year, they must file a tax return by Oct. 15.
Two bureaus of the Treasury Department are involved in making the
payments. The IRS will calculate the amount of each economic stimulus
payment based on the tax year 2007 income tax returns it receives. The
IRS will then forward the information to the Financial Management Service
(FMS), which is the bureau of the Treasury Department that makes federal
payments such as Social Security benefits, federal income tax refunds and,
now, economic stimulus payments.
The IRS reminds taxpayers that they can get their stimulus payments faster
by using direct deposit when they file their tax return.
In addition, the IRS urges taxpayers to file electronically. For people who
normally don’t need to file a tax return, the IRS and Free File Alliance have
a special program set up to allow for free electronic filing.
On April 10th, 2008, at 6:30pm, the communities of New Mexico will fight
back against Meth. In a historic and unprecedented event, a 30-minute
documentary titled 'Crystal Darkness' will air in a roadblock, which means it
will be broadcast simultaneously on all stations in the area, among them
KOB TV, KRQE TV, WB19, KASA Fox TV, and Telemundo. A simultaneous
training program will be introduced into all the schools in New Mexico to
educate our children. Follow up recovery efforts, fundraising, and
awareness raising could make this the most important community campaign
to hit our state in decades.
For more information about the documentary or about meth, visit Crystal
Darkness on the web at http://www.crystaldarkness.com/default.asp.
Domenici & Pearce comment on 5th anniversary
LOS ALAMOS – Marking the fifth anniversary of Operation Iraqi Freedom
Tuesday, U.S. Senator Pete Domenici reiterated his support for U.S. troops
in their ongoing efforts to improve Iraq’s safety and security.
Domenici recalled the New Mexico-related casualties in the War on Terror
and offered the following remarks:
“The Iraqi government has recently made progress in achieving the
benchmarks laid out by the President and Congress last year, and I am
encouraged by their growth in cultivating a peaceful and safe Iraq. I expect
further progress as the Iraqi government works together in the best interest
of its people.
“These advances would have been impossible without the help of American
troops. Over the past several years they and their families, many from New
Mexico, have made great sacrifices. They deserve our profound thanks
and support for their efforts in Iraq and the overall War on Terror.
“The costs associated with the war are large, yet I believe circumstances
dictate that we support funding and a congressional role to allow our troops
to defend the United States to the fullest extent. To do otherwise will
strengthen our enemies and undermine our national security.”
Congressman Steve Pearce made the following remarks on the 5-year
Anniversary of the Iraq War Commencement:
“We have seen tremendous progress by the Iraqi people to form a secure
and democratic country. I continue to view Iraq with cautious optimism, but
it is undeniable that the violence has dropped dramatically due in large part
to the skill and courage of our armed forces along with the
counterinsurgency strategy known as the Surge. The United States has a
vital national security interest in ensuring Iraq is a stable and valuable
partner in the War on Terror. There has been significant progress toward
that goal. As long as our military leaders believe we have role to play in
that objective and it is achievable, we should continue to offer our support
to the Iraqi people.”
Judy Stewart honored at city hall reception
Photo by Jan Briggs
Judy Stewart accepts a plaque of appreciation from Mayor Phil Burch at a reception
Tuesday afternoon. Stewart served as City Councilor in District 1 for eight years.
Brain-Teasers at the museum
ARTESIA - The Artesia Historical Museum & Art Center is currently
featuring “Brain Teasers”, an interactive exhibit on loan from the ¡Explora!
Museum in Albuquerque. The exhibit is on display in our Art Annex gallery
now through June 14th during regular Museum hours: Tuesdays-Fridays 9-
noon & 1-5; Saturdays 1-5 (please give us a call if you’d like to set up a
time to visit outside of these hours).
The exhibit features 20 different puzzles and mind-challenging games for
visitors to experiment with, grouped around 5 tables. In other words, this is
an exhibit that you CAN touch! The activities include knot-tying, number
games, tangram puzzles, balancing games, and lots more.
Families are encouraged to visit and test their team working skills, and
school classes and other groups are also welcome. We still have some
funding to sponsor school bus expenses, on a first-come first-served basis,
thanks to The Chase Foundation—just give Nancy a call at the Museum at
(575) 748-2390.
Wild Horse and Burro Program coming to Artesia
The public lands of the Western United States are diverse, ruggedly
beautiful and majestic - as are the horses and burros that live there. These
animals are born with the colors of the land upon them. The browns, blacks,
reds, blues, dapple grays, and snowy whites all reflect nature's paint-brush.
As early as the 1600's, horses and burros were released by or escaped
from Spanish explorers. As America's west was settled, additional horses
and burros from American Indians, settlers, miners, ranchers and soldiers
established the foundations of today's wild horse and burro herds. Wild
herds like these symbolize our western heritage and pioneer spirit.
Today, America's wild horses and burros are found in 10 western states. It
is the BLM's responsibility to preserve and protect healthy herds of wild,
free-roaming horses and burros as components of the public lands. The
Wild Horse Annie Act of 1959 and the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and
Burros Act of 1971 gave wild horses and burros a legal right to live on
public lands without harassment. The Adopt-A-Horse or Burro Program was
initiated in 1973 to meet the challenges of balancing the health of public
lands with the health of the wild horses and burros.
BLM invites you to adopt a living legend!
In Artesia, adoptions will be April 17 - 19, 2008 at the Eddy County
Fairgrounds.
*Thursday Preview: 4 - 6pm
*Friday Adoption: 8am - 6pm
*Saturday Adoption: 8am - Noon
Oral Bid Adoption starts at 10am on Friday. First-come-first-served
afterward for remainder of weekend.
Click here for PDF informational flyer.
Adoption Requirements
Applicant must be 18 years of age or older.
Applicant must have access to a stall/corral that meets the following criteria:
* Stall, corral, etc. must contain a minimum of 400 square feet per animal
* Stall, corral, etc. that is 6' tall on all sides with access to feed, water and
adequate shelter for anything 2 years or older. The stall/corral height is 5'
for a yearling and 4.5' for a burro. (This area is only required until animal is
gentled, not for the life of the animal.)
* Stall, corral, etc. must be made of protrusion-free materials, (EX) Wood,
Pipe, Cattle Panels. Barbed wire is not allowed in the area that is being
used for gentling the animal.
* Covered stock trailer. Covered stock trailer refers to: solid top, pipe rails,
tarp, etc. BLM will not load into two-horse or drop-ramp trailers.
Applicant must describe their stall/corral, etc. in the application packet and
submit to BLM for approval.
* Application - Describe the area where you will keep the animal(s) during
the gentling phase. (Application is located in back of brochure.)
Once you have completed the application packet, you may:
* Mail your packet to BLM at 221 N Service Rd, Moore, OK 73160
* or FAX your packet to BLM at (405) 790-1050
* or Hand deliver your packet to BLM at an upcoming adoption site
Upon receipt of your application packet, BLM will notify you by mail of your
approval. Approval can take place in a day’s time.
Method of payment: Cash, Money Order, VISA, MasterCard, American
Express, Discover, or Personal Check. Make all checks or money orders
out to USDI-BLM. Sorry, no debit cards are accepted. An adoption fee is
only required when adopting an animal!
Domenici asks for first responder training dollars
ALBUQUERQUE – U.S. Senator Pete Domenici Ttuesday indicated that he
has made a formal request to increase federal funding for the National
Infrastructure and Simulation Analysis Center (NISAC) in Albuquerque, as
well as additional funding to continue first responder training for local police
and firefighters.
Domenici serves on the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations
Subcommittee that will soon begin crafting the FY2009 funding bill for the
Department of Homeland Security, which includes the various agencies that
oversee border security and trade. Domenici made his request in a letter
to the leadership of the subcommittee.
Domenici has requested a $19 million increase over the President’s budget
request for NISAC in FY2009. If approved, NISAC would receive $35 million
to continue its work on simulating and evaluating potential homeland
security threats whether caused by national disasters or terrorists. NISAC,
a joint DHS and Energy Department initiative, is led by Sandia and Los
Alamos national laboratories. (http://www.sandia.
gov/mission/homeland/programs/critical/nisac.html)
“Our national laboratories in New Mexico have provided valuable assistance
to the Homeland Security Department over the past several years. NISAC
continues to come up with vital information on critical infrastructure
protection and continuity,” Domenici said. “The additional funding would
allow NISAC to continue to show us how to protect services like
transportation or electricity systems, which if disrupted would pose grave
security and economic threats to the country.”
Domenici is also requesting a total of $120 million for the National Domestic
Preparedness Consortium (NDPC), which includes New Mexico Tech. The
Domenici plan would allow each member of the consortium—New Mexico
Tech, Louisiana State University, Texas A&M University and the Nevada
Test Site—to be allotted $30 million to carry out first responder training for
emergency responders. This year each member is receiving $22 million in
FY2008 funding. The President requested $32.0 million for NDPC
FY2009. (http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/odp/)
“I don’t know that we are at a point in this nation where we should be
drawing back on first responder training,” Domenici said. “The courses
offered by New Mexico Tech and its partners have trained thousands of first
responders to better prepare them for disasters and potential terrorist
attacks.”
Domenici cautioned that the FY2009 budget and appropriations process
will be difficult, but that he will work to secure resources for New Mexico
from within available funding for FY2009.
FEMA flood information & preparedness advice
Throughout the nation, residents are at risk for flooding during spring, the
time of year when the warming sun and increased rainfall begin melting the
winter snow pack, releasing its often high water content. The Department of
Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency urges
residents to be prepared.
Before the threat of flooding becomes imminent, flood mitigation experts
advise individuals to:
* Purchase a flood insurance policy now. Homeowner insurance policies
do not include flood loss and there is a 30 day wait period for flood
coverage to become effective. Call your homeowner insurance agent to find
out about flood insurance.
* Make sure downspouts carry water several feet from your house to a
well-drained area. About 2,500 gallons of water will come from a 1,000
square foot roof with one foot of snow depth across the roof. This much
water may cause problems if allowed to drain next to the house.
* Move snow on the ground away from the house. Water from the snow
may cause a wet basement if allowed to run down along the basement wall.
If the ground is sloped 1 inch per foot near the house, moving the snow just
3-5 feet from the house will reduce problems.
* Examine and clean your sump pump, if you have one. Test your sump
pump by pouring water into the pit. Make sure the discharge hose carries
the water several feet away from the house to a well-drained area. Also
make sure that the pipe is on sloped ground so it drains to prevent it from
freezing.
* Remove snow from around rural yards to minimize soft, wet soil
conditions. Remember that a 20-foot diameter 10-foot high pile of snow
contains about 2,600 gallons of water. Move the snow to well drained areas.
* Be aware of local evacuation routes.
Consumers may call 1-888-379-9531 (TTY: 800-427-5593) or visit www.
FloodSmart.gov to learn about their potential flood risks, flood insurance
and how to prepare for floods.
IRS economic stimulus payments could hit your bank in May
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced Monday that it
will begin sending more than 130 million economic stimulus payments
starting May 2. The initial round of weekly payments will be completed by
early July.
Stimulus payments will be made by direct deposit to people who choose to
receive their 2007 income tax refunds through direct deposit. All others will
receive their economic stimulus payments in the form of a paper check.
“To receive an economic stimulus payment, people just need to file their tax
returns as they usually do,” said IRS Acting Commissioner Linda E. Stiff.
“The payments will be automatic for the vast majority of taxpayers. Some
lower-income workers and recipients of certain Social Security and veterans
benefits who don’t normally need to file a tax return will need to do so in
order to receive a stimulus payment. IRS.gov has all the information people
need to help them obtain a stimulus payment.”
Stimulus payments will be sent out in the order of the last two digits of the
Social Security number used on the tax return.
Because the IRS will use the Social Security number to determine when
checks are mailed, taxpayers may receive their checks at different times
than their neighbors or other family members. On a jointly filed return, the
first Social Security number listed will determine the mail-out time.
The IRS expects to make about 34 million payments within the first three
weeks after the payment schedule begins May 2. With more than 130
million households expected to receive stimulus payments, more than 25
percent of the payments will be made in the first three weeks.
Taxpayers who choose direct deposit on their federal income tax returns
can expect to receive their economic stimulus payments between May 2
and May 16 provided their returns were received and processed by April
15, 2008. For taxpayers who did not choose direct deposit on their tax
return but whose returns were processed by April 15, the paper checks will
be in the mail starting May 16, with the initial mailings completed by around
July 11.
The IRS is also announcing Monday the availability of an on-line calculator
on IRS.gov to help taxpayers determine if they are eligible to receive an
economic stimulus payment and if they are, how much they can expect.
Anyone who has prepared a 2007 income tax return can use the calculator.
It will ask taxpayers a series of questions, so they should have their 2007
tax returns handy. After answering the questions, the calculator will provide
the projected dollar value of the payment.
A small percentage of tax returns will require additional time to process and
to compute a stimulus payment amount. For these returns, stimulus
payments may not be issued in accordance with the schedule at IRS.gov,
even if the tax return was processed by April 15.
All or part of an economic stimulus payment may be applied to back taxes
or certain other debts of the taxpayer, such as delinquent child support and
student loans. In such cases, the IRS will send a letter to the taxpayer
explaining the offset.
To accommodate people whose tax returns are processed after April 15,
the IRS will continue sending weekly payments. People who file tax returns
after April 15 and receive a refund can expect to receive their economic
stimulus payments in about two weeks after receiving their tax refunds, but
not before the date they would have received their payment if the return
had been processed by April 15. To ensure taxpayers receive their stimulus
payment this year, they must file a tax return by Oct. 15.
Two bureaus of the Treasury Department are involved in making the
payments. The IRS will calculate the amount of each economic stimulus
payment based on the tax year 2007 income tax returns it receives. The
IRS will then forward the information to the Financial Management Service
(FMS), which is the bureau of the Treasury Department that makes federal
payments such as Social Security benefits, federal income tax refunds and,
now, economic stimulus payments.
The IRS reminds taxpayers that they can get their stimulus payments faster
by using direct deposit when they file their tax return.
In addition, the IRS urges taxpayers to file electronically. For people who
normally don’t need to file a tax return, the IRS and Free File Alliance have
a special program set up to allow for free electronic filing.
National Geographic goes green in NM
ALBUQUERQUE - The National Tribal
Environmental Council (NTEC) is honored to
announce the participation of the prestigious
National Geographic All Roads Film Project in its
Global Green Indigenous Film Festival.
The Global Green Indigenous Film Festival will
take place in Santa Fe, NM between April 18
and 20, 2008 at the Cinema Café, Center for
Contemporary Arts, and NM Film Museum
Theater. This is the inaugural year of what is
slated to become an annual event of major
significance. Held in tandem with NTEC's annual
Environmental Conference and co-sponsored
by the New Mexico Tourism Department and the
Jicarilla Apache Nation, the Film Festival adds a
new dimension to showcasing the issues,
aspirations and innovations of global Indigenous
communities in their charge to protect Mother
Earth.
The All Roads Film Project is a National
Geographic initiative created to provide an
international platform for indigenous and
underrepresented minority-culture artists to
share their cultures, stories and perspectives
through the power of film and photography.
Members of its Advisory Board include actors
and directors Lou Diamond Phillips, Stockard
Channing, Kiefer Sutherland and Spike Lee.
Presentations by the National Geographic All
Roads Film Project will both open and close the
festival. Opening night, April 18, will feature
Kekexili: Mountain Patrol, a Chinese/ Tibetan
film directed by Lu Chuan. Experience the
unbelievable rugged and death-defying true
story of Tibetan volunteers who battle the
elements, poachers, and each other in their
noble quest to save the Chiru antelope in the
inhospitable mountains of Tibet. On closing
night, April 20, Arctic Son will be shown. This
Canadian/ U.S. documentary directed by
Andrew Walton tells the story of Stanley Njootli
Jr., who escapes a drug-fueled city life to join
his father and his Gwitchin roots in the rugged
Arctic, and embarks on a universal quest to
discover who he is and where he belongs.
The Director of the National Geographic All
Roads Film Project, Francene J. Blythe, states:
"We are thrilled to be a part of the Indigenous
efforts to reach out to the global community
using film as a way to share stories, concerns
and issues about our environment. The Global
Green Indigenous Film Festival is embarking
down a critical path to bring global solutions to
climate change through a medium that can
reach the masses. They are to be applauded
for such efforts".
Global Green Indigenous Film Festival: www.
ggiff.com.
National Geographic All Roads Film Project:
www.nationalgeographic.com/allroads.
Think MTV | Activism, Community, Politics,
Education, Sexual ... NTEC and the NM tourism
department are sponsoring the Global Green
Indigenous Film Festival April 18-20, 2008 in
Santa Fe, NM.
One World, One Environment
NTEC's mission is to support Indian tribes and
Alaska Native villages in protecting, regulating
and managing their environmental resources
according to their own priorities and values.
Film Festival Venues
New Mexico Film Museum Theater (Formerly
Jean Cocteau Cinema) 418 Montezuma Ave,
Santa Fe, NM (505) 476-5670
Center For Contemporary Arts, 1050 Old Pecos
Trail, Santa Fe, NM (505) 982-1338
Santa Fe Film Center at Cinema Cafe, 1616 St.
Michaels Drive, Santa Fe, NM (505) 988-7414
Take Two and Call Me in the Morning
by Sharon Caldwell, Director-Artesia Literacy
Council
Recently my husband underwent surgery. This
has meant many visits to the doctor's office,
medical labs, hospitals, and forms, forms, forms.
There are so many forms; medical history,
medical release, insurance assignment and the
form that states you understand all of the other
forms. All these forms require a lot of reading.
The ability to read doesn't just start or end with
the forms. There is the need to be able to read
the road maps and signs for traveling to the
doctor and hospital. Once you get there you
have to be able to read the direction signs to
find your way around the hospital. This way to
the lab for tests, this way to admissions, this way
to records and billing and around and around
you go.
After surgery you have post-op care forms and
you can't forget the prescriptions you will have
to take. Do you know to be able to read and
comprehend the instructions on an aspirin bottle
it requires a functional reading level of 10.0? A
10.0 is the reading level of 10th grade 0 month.
After all this, you have to work with the hospital
to file your insurance. The average insurance
policy tops the list at 12.0!
Do you also know?
* 20% of New Mexicans age 16 years and older
have literacy skills at Level 1, the lowest on a
scale of 1 to 5. These adults are illiterate – they
cannot sign a form, add the amounts on a bank
deposit slip, or locate simple information in a
news article.
* 46% of New Mexicans have literacy skills at
Level II. This means that almost half of New
Mexicans are functionally illiterate, in need of
assistance from Literacy Programs.
New Mexico Coalition for Literacy in part
sponsors 25 volunteer-based Adult Literacy
Programs in New Mexico – Artesia Literacy
Council is one of these 25 programs.
The goals of Artesia Literacy Council is to teach
reading, writing and speaking English to a
functional level; help students with US
citizenship and GED test information,
applications, workplace and everyday survival.
We offer no cost classes that are custom
designed to the needs of each adult student.
Our tutors are caring people, committed to
reducing illiteracy in Artesia and surrounding
towns and are dedicated to achieving this for
each of our students.
If you or you know someone who would benefit
from tutor assistance, please contact us at 748-
9740 or come by 2002 West Grand, Monday–
Friday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
Evening with Eastern - win a car!
ROSWELL - High school seniors will have the
opportunity to win a free used car on Thursday,
March 20, when ENMU-Roswell hosts its annual
‘Evening with Eastern’ event at the Roswell
Convention and Civic Center. The free event will
be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. High school
students and parents are welcome to attend.
Krumland Auto Group has donated a 1997
Lincoln Town Car to give away as a Grand Prize
to a local high school senior.
Seniors can also enter drawings for a new
Gateway notebook computer and two tuition
scholarships provided by the ENMU-Roswell
Foundation. All who attend will have the chance
to win a number of other prizes donated by local
businesses and restaurants. The ENMU-Roswell
Foundation will give away an iPod nano.
Students can participate in hands-on activities
and meet with ENMU-Roswell instructors and
staff. Complimentary hot dogs and drinks will
also be served. For more information, call 624-
7403.
Artesia MainStreet, Inc. Main Event Car
Show & Cruise
by Stephanie Bretz
ARTESIA - Lions, Tigers, Bears, and Classic
Cars....OH MY!!! That’s right, lions, tigers, and
bears are certainly intimidating and scary; but
classic cars are fun, inviting, and exciting!!
On behalf of Artesia MainStreet and the Artesia
Car Enthusiasts I would like to invite you to the
11th Annual Main Event Car Show & Cruise,
where everyone is invited and an exciting time is
to be had by all!!
This year’s car show will be held at Heritage
Plaza located on Texas Avenue, and is
expected to host anywhere from 150-160 cars!!
That sure is a lot of vehicles.....we will have
anything from classic pickups to hi-performance
race cars!! Yes, even race cars come out for
this spectacular event! So be sure to mark your
calendar for March 28-29th! Here is a full
schedule of events for the car show:
Friday, March 28th:
• 1pm-7pm: Registration
• 6pm-8pm: Free hotdog cookout for participants
• 8pm: Fireworks and Car Cruise
Saturday, March 29th:
• 7am-9am: Registration & Set Up
• 9am-4pm: Car Show
• 4pm: Awards Ceremony
As you can see this is fun weekend packed with
lots of excitement!! Other event features will be
DJ John, who provides the best 50’s Rock and
Roll Music; Mike Deans and the Dean’s Pyro
Team will also be on hand Friday night to do
what the do best, FIREWORKS!!! Another great
feature of the car show is the food!! Artesia
MainStreet is in charge of serving up the best
hamburgers, hot dogs, and hoagies for the
event, so be sure to stop by!!
Now before the cars roll into town there is still
plenty of preparation to take place. If you are
interested in getting involved with the car show,
either by showcasing your car or just wanting to
pitch in a hand, be sure to contact Frank or
Dorothy Hammond at 746-9477. If you can’t
reach the Hammonds, be sure to try Gene or
Dolores McCaskill at 746-4796. You can check
out more information about the Artesia Car
Enthusiasts, and the Main Event Car Show and
Cruise at www.acecarclub.net.
Also, please feel free to contact AMS anytime if
you have questions about the information in this
week’s article or about any MainStreet events
and projects at our offices at 746-1117 or check
out our website at www.artesiamainstreet.com.
Pearce protests package putting private
property in peril
WASHINGTON - Congressman Steve Pearce
Wednesday fought to protect New Mexico's
private property rights by attempting to amend
the National Landscape Conservation System
Act - a poor piece of legislation that significanly
damages the New Mexico economy. The
Pearce amendments would protect traditional
uses of federal land managed by the Bureau of
Land Management, such as grazing. Ranching,
an important part of the New mexico economy, is
put at great risk under this bill. Two additional
amendments sponsored by Pearce would
protect the ability to develop renewable sources
of energy and ensure that local governments
received proper PILT payments.
Earlier this week, Pearce called on his New
Mexico House colleagues to explain why they
support the National Landscape Conservation
System Act which will punish New mexico's
economy. Both Rep. Tom Udall and Rep.
Heather Wilson are cosponsors of the bill.
After the hearings, Pearce released the
following comments:
"This bill causes significant damage to the
economies of western states. It threatens
private property rights and puts at risk the
ranching community in New Mexico. In addition,
it threatens traditional uses of public lands such
as camping, hunting and fishing.
"Rep. Udall and Rep. Wilson have cosponsored
this harmful legislation and they should explain
that decision to the people of New Mexico. My
amendments sought to head off the damage it
will ultimately do to our state. Though we were
unsuccessful today, I will continue to press for
the interests of New Mexico even if I am the only
one willing to stand up for them."
ALBUQUERQUE - The National Tribal
Environmental Council (NTEC) is honored to
announce the participation of the prestigious
National Geographic All Roads Film Project in its
Global Green Indigenous Film Festival.
The Global Green Indigenous Film Festival will
take place in Santa Fe, NM between April 18
and 20, 2008 at the Cinema Café, Center for
Contemporary Arts, and NM Film Museum
Theater. This is the inaugural year of what is
slated to become an annual event of major
significance. Held in tandem with NTEC's annual
Environmental Conference and co-sponsored
by the New Mexico Tourism Department and the
Jicarilla Apache Nation, the Film Festival adds a
new dimension to showcasing the issues,
aspirations and innovations of global Indigenous
communities in their charge to protect Mother
Earth.
The All Roads Film Project is a National
Geographic initiative created to provide an
international platform for indigenous and
underrepresented minority-culture artists to
share their cultures, stories and perspectives
through the power of film and photography.
Members of its Advisory Board include actors
and directors Lou Diamond Phillips, Stockard
Channing, Kiefer Sutherland and Spike Lee.
Presentations by the National Geographic All
Roads Film Project will both open and close the
festival. Opening night, April 18, will feature
Kekexili: Mountain Patrol, a Chinese/ Tibetan
film directed by Lu Chuan. Experience the
unbelievable rugged and death-defying true
story of Tibetan volunteers who battle the
elements, poachers, and each other in their
noble quest to save the Chiru antelope in the
inhospitable mountains of Tibet. On closing
night, April 20, Arctic Son will be shown. This
Canadian/ U.S. documentary directed by
Andrew Walton tells the story of Stanley Njootli
Jr., who escapes a drug-fueled city life to join
his father and his Gwitchin roots in the rugged
Arctic, and embarks on a universal quest to
discover who he is and where he belongs.
The Director of the National Geographic All
Roads Film Project, Francene J. Blythe, states:
"We are thrilled to be a part of the Indigenous
efforts to reach out to the global community
using film as a way to share stories, concerns
and issues about our environment. The Global
Green Indigenous Film Festival is embarking
down a critical path to bring global solutions to
climate change through a medium that can
reach the masses. They are to be applauded
for such efforts".
Global Green Indigenous Film Festival: www.
ggiff.com.
National Geographic All Roads Film Project:
www.nationalgeographic.com/allroads.
Think MTV | Activism, Community, Politics,
Education, Sexual ... NTEC and the NM tourism
department are sponsoring the Global Green
Indigenous Film Festival April 18-20, 2008 in
Santa Fe, NM.
One World, One Environment
NTEC's mission is to support Indian tribes and
Alaska Native villages in protecting, regulating
and managing their environmental resources
according to their own priorities and values.
Film Festival Venues
New Mexico Film Museum Theater (Formerly
Jean Cocteau Cinema) 418 Montezuma Ave,
Santa Fe, NM (505) 476-5670
Center For Contemporary Arts, 1050 Old Pecos
Trail, Santa Fe, NM (505) 982-1338
Santa Fe Film Center at Cinema Cafe, 1616 St.
Michaels Drive, Santa Fe, NM (505) 988-7414
Take Two and Call Me in the Morning
by Sharon Caldwell, Director-Artesia Literacy
Council
Recently my husband underwent surgery. This
has meant many visits to the doctor's office,
medical labs, hospitals, and forms, forms, forms.
There are so many forms; medical history,
medical release, insurance assignment and the
form that states you understand all of the other
forms. All these forms require a lot of reading.
The ability to read doesn't just start or end with
the forms. There is the need to be able to read
the road maps and signs for traveling to the
doctor and hospital. Once you get there you
have to be able to read the direction signs to
find your way around the hospital. This way to
the lab for tests, this way to admissions, this way
to records and billing and around and around
you go.
After surgery you have post-op care forms and
you can't forget the prescriptions you will have
to take. Do you know to be able to read and
comprehend the instructions on an aspirin bottle
it requires a functional reading level of 10.0? A
10.0 is the reading level of 10th grade 0 month.
After all this, you have to work with the hospital
to file your insurance. The average insurance
policy tops the list at 12.0!
Do you also know?
* 20% of New Mexicans age 16 years and older
have literacy skills at Level 1, the lowest on a
scale of 1 to 5. These adults are illiterate – they
cannot sign a form, add the amounts on a bank
deposit slip, or locate simple information in a
news article.
* 46% of New Mexicans have literacy skills at
Level II. This means that almost half of New
Mexicans are functionally illiterate, in need of
assistance from Literacy Programs.
New Mexico Coalition for Literacy in part
sponsors 25 volunteer-based Adult Literacy
Programs in New Mexico – Artesia Literacy
Council is one of these 25 programs.
The goals of Artesia Literacy Council is to teach
reading, writing and speaking English to a
functional level; help students with US
citizenship and GED test information,
applications, workplace and everyday survival.
We offer no cost classes that are custom
designed to the needs of each adult student.
Our tutors are caring people, committed to
reducing illiteracy in Artesia and surrounding
towns and are dedicated to achieving this for
each of our students.
If you or you know someone who would benefit
from tutor assistance, please contact us at 748-
9740 or come by 2002 West Grand, Monday–
Friday 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
Evening with Eastern - win a car!
ROSWELL - High school seniors will have the
opportunity to win a free used car on Thursday,
March 20, when ENMU-Roswell hosts its annual
‘Evening with Eastern’ event at the Roswell
Convention and Civic Center. The free event will
be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. High school
students and parents are welcome to attend.
Krumland Auto Group has donated a 1997
Lincoln Town Car to give away as a Grand Prize
to a local high school senior.
Seniors can also enter drawings for a new
Gateway notebook computer and two tuition
scholarships provided by the ENMU-Roswell
Foundation. All who attend will have the chance
to win a number of other prizes donated by local
businesses and restaurants. The ENMU-Roswell
Foundation will give away an iPod nano.
Students can participate in hands-on activities
and meet with ENMU-Roswell instructors and
staff. Complimentary hot dogs and drinks will
also be served. For more information, call 624-
7403.
Artesia MainStreet, Inc. Main Event Car
Show & Cruise
by Stephanie Bretz
ARTESIA - Lions, Tigers, Bears, and Classic
Cars....OH MY!!! That’s right, lions, tigers, and
bears are certainly intimidating and scary; but
classic cars are fun, inviting, and exciting!!
On behalf of Artesia MainStreet and the Artesia
Car Enthusiasts I would like to invite you to the
11th Annual Main Event Car Show & Cruise,
where everyone is invited and an exciting time is
to be had by all!!
This year’s car show will be held at Heritage
Plaza located on Texas Avenue, and is
expected to host anywhere from 150-160 cars!!
That sure is a lot of vehicles.....we will have
anything from classic pickups to hi-performance
race cars!! Yes, even race cars come out for
this spectacular event! So be sure to mark your
calendar for March 28-29th! Here is a full
schedule of events for the car show:
Friday, March 28th:
• 1pm-7pm: Registration
• 6pm-8pm: Free hotdog cookout for participants
• 8pm: Fireworks and Car Cruise
Saturday, March 29th:
• 7am-9am: Registration & Set Up
• 9am-4pm: Car Show
• 4pm: Awards Ceremony
As you can see this is fun weekend packed with
lots of excitement!! Other event features will be
DJ John, who provides the best 50’s Rock and
Roll Music; Mike Deans and the Dean’s Pyro
Team will also be on hand Friday night to do
what the do best, FIREWORKS!!! Another great
feature of the car show is the food!! Artesia
MainStreet is in charge of serving up the best
hamburgers, hot dogs, and hoagies for the
event, so be sure to stop by!!
Now before the cars roll into town there is still
plenty of preparation to take place. If you are
interested in getting involved with the car show,
either by showcasing your car or just wanting to
pitch in a hand, be sure to contact Frank or
Dorothy Hammond at 746-9477. If you can’t
reach the Hammonds, be sure to try Gene or
Dolores McCaskill at 746-4796. You can check
out more information about the Artesia Car
Enthusiasts, and the Main Event Car Show and
Cruise at www.acecarclub.net.
Also, please feel free to contact AMS anytime if
you have questions about the information in this
week’s article or about any MainStreet events
and projects at our offices at 746-1117 or check
out our website at www.artesiamainstreet.com.
Pearce protests package putting private
property in peril
WASHINGTON - Congressman Steve Pearce
Wednesday fought to protect New Mexico's
private property rights by attempting to amend
the National Landscape Conservation System
Act - a poor piece of legislation that significanly
damages the New Mexico economy. The
Pearce amendments would protect traditional
uses of federal land managed by the Bureau of
Land Management, such as grazing. Ranching,
an important part of the New mexico economy, is
put at great risk under this bill. Two additional
amendments sponsored by Pearce would
protect the ability to develop renewable sources
of energy and ensure that local governments
received proper PILT payments.
Earlier this week, Pearce called on his New
Mexico House colleagues to explain why they
support the National Landscape Conservation
System Act which will punish New mexico's
economy. Both Rep. Tom Udall and Rep.
Heather Wilson are cosponsors of the bill.
After the hearings, Pearce released the
following comments:
"This bill causes significant damage to the
economies of western states. It threatens
private property rights and puts at risk the
ranching community in New Mexico. In addition,
it threatens traditional uses of public lands such
as camping, hunting and fishing.
"Rep. Udall and Rep. Wilson have cosponsored
this harmful legislation and they should explain
that decision to the people of New Mexico. My
amendments sought to head off the damage it
will ultimately do to our state. Though we were
unsuccessful today, I will continue to press for
the interests of New Mexico even if I am the only
one willing to stand up for them."
